Snake in the grass

Snake in the grass

Two years ago we planted several hundred Snakeshead fritillary bulbs in the Genus meadow.  Unfortunately they’ve always proved to be a disappointment.  With very few flowering we assumed that they were being predated by the local pheasants or by lily beetles which have a penchant for a plump developing flower bud.  This year however it’s been a very different story and we've been so happy to see half a dozen swathes each with up to 50 flowers all nodding happily in the spring sunshine.

Snakeshead fritillaries, or Fritillaria meleagris as they are known botanically, thrive in our soil - just a few miles down the road is North Meadow one of the last strongholds of this once common flower.  With 85% of the UK population in its 108 acres it’s a stunning sight and really ought to be on the bucket list of any keen gardener, with thousands and thousands of flowers creating a purple sheen to the landscape stretching three quarters of a mile into the distance.  Carefully managed the land often floods giving these plants the conditions they thrive in.

If planting them in the garden a damp spot is recommended, though these plants are probably far more adaptable than we give them credit for.  In one garden we visit some have self-sown themselves in a hot south facing spot at the base of a dry stone wall.  It seems that plants don’t always read the rule book.


On the plot - perennial veg

If you have a busy life, time is short, or you just want to sample something new, why not try growing perennial vegetables?  It’s one way to avoid the annual...
Read More

Gardeners' notes - what to do in July

Clean greenhouse glass Last month we recommended different forms of shading for your greenhouse.  Whether painted on or draped over, it is only usually only required on the south side...
Read More

Modern heroes of horticulture - Kathy Slack

Kathy Slack’s story is one of inspiration to anyone caught in a career trajectory spiralling out of control.  Trapped in the corporate world of advertising, her journey from burnout and...
Read More